
24 May The Russian Kettlebell Swing Vs The American Kettlebell Swing
Let’s try to clear the big debate once and for all about the kettlebell swing, shall we?
Let me explain a common question and help shed some new perspective on 2 different styles of the kettlebell swing (the Russian swing and the American swing).
Which style is better?
This is clearly a hugely debated question, isn’t it?
The intent here is NOT to bash one method, but to look at things from a safety, biomechanical, and effectiveness viewpoint and try to rationalize and understand the difference between 2 styles as much as possible.
I strongly considered whether I should write this article or not, but feel I needed to share this unique perspective and rationale because I have not seen these comparisons at this level.
Let’s talk about the ongoing debate between the Russian style kettlebell swing (RKBS) and the American style kettlebell swing (AKBS).
Before I get into this, I must give you some information on my own background, so you know the exact position I’m taking here.
The first perspective is that of an orthopedic physical therapist.
For your reference, I’ve treated countless shoulder and spine patients (and many other orthopedic injuries, as well).
I understand anatomy, joint mechanics, and stress on the human musculoskelatal system.
The next perspective is that of an injured athlete, as a former “back injury” patient myself and having herniated a lumbar disc years ago that required surgery and rehab.
I’ve personally experienced severe low back pain and radiculopathy in the worst possible way.
My back is fine now, but I constantly seek to optimize my training to make my back stronger and healthier, while strongly considering the biomechanics and neuromuscular efficiency in every lift and exercise I perform.
And, finally, the perspective of a passionate strength coach.
To say I’m passionate and committed about teaching today’s fitness enthusiast how to achieve better movement, mobility, and strength is an understatement.
I teach people how to be stronger and move better using methods and techniques that I beleive are the safest and most biomechanically efficient to deliver optimal results for the individual’s goals.
I won’t go into all of my credentials and training, you can click here if you want to read more, but I thought you should know where I’m coming from with all of this.
Now, let’s talk biomechanics.
Biomechanics is the study of the mechanics of human movement.
There are many variables to analyze when looking at proper biomechanics.
For me, it basically means how “efficient” can we be with our movement.
It’s important to understand this as we look at this debate.
First, we’ll look at the Russian style ketlebell swing (RKBS).
The RKBS is designed to maximize explosive hip strength and power. It is most effective by utilizing powerful hip drive and a “hip hinge” pattern, maintaining a neutral spinal position.
When done properly, there is minimal compressive and shear stress on the lumbar spine because the spine is neither overly flexed or extended during any point in the RKBS.
The arms are essentially not used actively, meaning the anterior deltoids are not forcefully elevating the kettlebell.
The kettlebell is being brought forward by forceful hip drive and the kettlebell “floats” to the height of the shoulders or possibly even lower.
The height of the kettlebell is really irrelevant because the hip power is the focus and not the active elevation of the kettbell.
The swinging of the arms and the proximity to the heart cause a tremendous cardiovascular benefit, as heart rate and breathing capacity increases with increased repetitions.
Also, the benefits to the “core” (abdominals, vertebral paraspinals, and all surounding hip musculature) are amazing.
When performed correctly, with proper coaching and motor learning, the RKBS is one of the most powerful exercises a human can perform, in my opinion, as it literally blends total body strength and power with cardiovasular conditioning.
And, it’s one of the safest, most biomechanically effiecient exercises, when executed properly.
To recap, it is designed for hip “explosiveness,” as well as many other specific benefits.
And, it can be done swinging a heavy kettlebell for added strength and conditioning.
The kettlebell travels from a position back between your legs to the height of the shoulders or below, as mentioned.
So, the range of motion (ROM) is limited to this path of travel, which is safe and efficient for the goals of the exercise.
This is in contrast to the American kettlebell swing (AKBS) which has a much longer path to travel, as the kettlebell is elevated overhead.
Now comes the question, which is better?
My answer is based on a biomechanics and safety standpoint, as I’ve mentioned.
I have tried the AKBS and have been open minded to the reported benefits of the exercise.
I have also tried to find a ‘rationale’ as to why I would do it.
I have logged extensive time and hours with the RKBS.
I have become a kettlebell expert, but I am still the student and always will be as this is continuous journey towards better movement and better strength for me.
With that said, I have not been able to find a reason why I would incorporate this into my own training, at this time, and I will provide my reasons why.
First, the postion of bringing the kettlebell overhead is not as effective for what the exercise is designed to do.
Let me explain what I mean.
As I stated, I use the RKBS for hip strength and power, as well as cardiovascular conditioning in the safest, most efficient technique.
The AKBS is not as effective for these benefits, as the hip power is lost with the overhead movement as the power shifts from the hips to the shoulders and upper body and also encourages spinal extension.
The evolution of the AKBS stemmed from the question, “why not take the kettlebell overhead?” which may have bypassed the importance of establishing a strong foundation with the RKBS first.
I would ask the opposite question.
“Why take the kettlebell overhead in a swing style pattern when there are better biomechanically efficient options?”
Let me say the RKBS is not a “half rep,” as I have seen reported in some online content.
The RKBS has a specific purpose, benefit, and rationale, which I have mentioned previously.
Because this style swing only elevates to ‘roughly’ the shoulder level, this is definitely not just a “half rep.”
It’s an efficient hip power ballistic exercise.
Yes, the AKBS is near double the ROM (range of motion) with the path of travel being taken above the head, but is it necessary and is it safe?
When you are lifting with a barbell (proper olympic lifts and power lifts, for example), you want the most effiicienct bar path possible, correct?
I know that barbell lifts and kettlebells are very different, of course, but both methods of training require lifting efficiency and neuromuscular efficiency to deliver the best results in the safest manner.
Does the overhead kettebell swing provide the best result in the safest way possible?
If you have experience with both styles, answer this question honestly.
Is it worth the extra physiological stress, joint compromise, and lack of neuromuscular efficiency?
For me, it is not.
Is the AKBS twice as hard as the RKBS?
Well, I think it may be more taxing due to the increased ROM and increased muscular recruitment of the upper body to propel the kettebell overhead.
But, I keep going back to the fact that the AKBS is simply not as “efficient” as the RKBS.
Is the AKBS more effective because it goes overhead?
Let’s dig deeper and take this on a joint by joint approach, starting with the shoulder.
For me, the AKBS is awkward in the overhead postion as the hands are close together, which can be a more compromising position for both the AC (acromioclavicular) joints and GH (glenohumoral) joints in the shoulder region due to the proximity of the hands.
At the end ROM overhead, the shoulder joint is in an internally rotated and end-range flexed position, which encroaches the shoulder (subacromial space) and can be provacative for shoulder impingement.
In case you’re wondering how things compares to the kettlebell snatch, the shoulder is not nearly as compromised here due to the fact that the load is asymetrical and you have the ability to open and slightly externally rotate your hand at end range which opens the shoulder joint and this is not nearly as provocative for shoulder impingement.
The awkward feeling with 2 hands on the close handle of the kettlebell would be similar to squating with your feet extremely close together, which would feel very weird and unnatural.
Also, the kettlebell is in an unusual position overhead, as the kettlebell is not “tamed” as is with the kettlebell snatch, so it remains either somewhat parallel to the floor or in a vertical position, either of which is not as mechanically efficient.
Again, I’m not clear on the rationale to work the shoulders with the AKBS when there are other, more biomechanically efficient exercises.
I do understand the thinking to do more ROM and more work, it’s simply not as efficient or safe.
The proximity of the hands can potentially be more stressful on the wrists, as well, although I would say this is not a significant flaw to the AKBS, as there are larger issues, as mentioned.
I am not crazy about the shoulder position at all, for the reasons I mentioned. And, I think there are more optimal exercises to strengthen the shoulders and shoulder girdle complex, such as the military press and kettlebell snatch, for example.
The question of “why not take the kettlebell overhead” may have been an interesting question to ask, but from a safety and biomechanical analysis, it doesn’t seem logical to me.
I respect differences in opinion, but would challenge individuals to evaluate the rationale of the exercise to determine if it is a fit for the training goal and be very clear on the risks and rewards of the exercise.
If you compare the snatch to the AKBS, the snatch is significantly better on the shoulder and wrist and does not promote the lumbar hyperextension.
But, one of the challenges with the snatch is learning to effectively “tame the arch,” which is moving around the kettlebell so that it is positioned safely on your forearm without banging in the lockout position overhead.
What would potentially be a safer, more biomechanically efficient exercise with a similar effect as the AKBS?
That would be the double kettlebell snatch, but the drawback is that this is an advanced exercise.
But, I would say that the AKBS is an advanced exercise, as well.
Even Jeff Martone, CrossFit kettlebell expert, kettlebell trainer, and author of the book “Kettlebell Rx” says that “there is a time and a place for the AKBS, but that is ONLY after the RKBS has been mastered.”
Let’s face the facts here.
Many people do not master the RKBS first and instead begin with the AKBS. This is the mistake.
Let’s discuss the spine in more detail next.
Here’s the real potential risk with the AKBS, in my opinion.
The long arc of motion promotes lumbar hyperextension once the kettlebell passes the height of the shoulders to get the kettlebell overhead.
The path is very different from the kettlebell snatch, as the kettlebell snatch keeps the kettllebell closer to the body and the last phase of elevation is done by using the momentum of the explosive hip drive and pulling up with the arm and “taming the arc” by punching underneath the kettlebell.
In contrast, with the AKBS the tendency is to lurch and propel the bell overhead by leaning back, which promotes the lumbar extension or hyperextension.
This can be very problematic and unsafe, if not performed correctly.
It is this potential to “lurch” that is the real threat to safety in the AKBS because a hyperextended lumbar position can provoke muscular strain, facet joint compression. narrowing of the posterior joint space, overstretching of the ligaments, and potentially hypermobility at a lumbar segment, if improper technique persists.
That is the biggest risk with poor mechanics wih the AKBS.
Another potential challenge is head position.
As the kettlebell comes overhead, the natural tendency is to push your head forward into cervical hyperextension (a forward head).
Again, this takes the head out of a neutral position.
I will admit that maintiaining a neutral cervical spine is challenging, even with the RKBS, however, the hyperextension is more excessive and pronounced with the AKBS when the kettlebell reaches the top position overhead.
Can you convince me that the spine (lumbar and cervical) is better stabilized in an optimal position with the AKBS compared to the RKBS?
I don’t think there is any way you can convince me of that, no matter what skill level someone attains as the differences in mechanics makes that impossible.
The KEY question is what can be gained by performing the AKBS over the RKBS?
That is the question I ask myself and have not been able to answer.
Maybe your reasons and rationale are different than mine.
Maybe you can answer the question differently than I can.
As I opened this article, my intetnt was to look at the comparisons objectively, purely from a movement and biomechanics perspective and try to better understand the differences and benefits.
Again, I am passionate about optimizing training efficiency for the best results with the least compromise to safety.
With my background and understanding, I simply can’t answer why I would do the AKBS in my own training, unless at some point I simply wanted to advance my training variations of the kettlebell swing.
No matter where you stand with this debate, I encourage you to evaluate the differences in technique between the two different swing styles and ask the following questions.
What are my goals with the exercise, what are the safest, most optimal ways to achieve my goals, and are there better alternatives?
As I’ve tested both styles and evaluated the biomechanics of each, the RKBS is my preferred style.
It comes down to what is a more efficient, cleaner, safer movement for the result I am working for.
Now, I realize there are those that are advocates of the AKBS and I respect the opinions and views of others, however, the information presented here is what makes sense to me.
In closing, I do agree with Jeff Martone, that there probably is a place for the AKBS, but the RKBS must be mastered first.
Learning how to perform the RKBS first is absolutely the key to establish a safer pattern with the AKBS, if that is the style you prefer.
Is there a debate on this?
I provided the rationale.
Do what’s right for you, but understand the differences.
Most importantly, be sensible with your training.
Post your comments and please share the article if you feel it was valuable.
Sebastian
Posted at 08:47h, 25 MayHi Scott,
thanks for this post! I have the same standpoint like you.
I heard this question many times in the past weeks.
Now i got a good source to answer the question completely.
Thanks again,
Sebastian
Scott
Posted at 09:39h, 26 MayThanks Sebastian. It’s a frequently asked question, no doubt.
Hope this adds perspective and insight on the differences.
Scott
Jeff
Posted at 16:13h, 25 MayHey Scott, awesome article, in my opinion the RKBS is not broken and therefore does not have to be fixed. It’s been used for centuries by the Russian people and has proved itself time and time again. I have never seen a reason to do the AKBS when there is the snatch and clean&press. Thank you for the great insight
Scott
Posted at 09:36h, 26 MayThanks Jeff! Just wanted to provide a fresh perspective on the differences, as it’s something I’m asked a lot about.
Steph
Posted at 20:12h, 25 MayExcellent article! I was diagnosed with Degenerative Disc Disorder and Spinal Stenosis over a year ago and told not to lift more than 10 lbs. Physical therapy was a joke. I had gained 80 lbs of “happy fat” after a divorce.
Then my boyfriend’s baby sister lost her 10 year battle with breast cancer at 43 (June 2012) and I vowed to get in shape (she would have loved to work out).. and so my journey with kettle bells began. Exactly 6 months later, my cousin lost her cancer battle (Dec 2012).
I am down 40 lbs and swinging 52lbs —and quite the RKBS maniac.. I would never attempt swinging over my head due to my back.. that’s just me though. Turkish getups, snatches, swings, goblet squats, halos, figure 8s.. bring it on! 🙂
Scott
Posted at 09:46h, 26 MayHey Steph,
Sorry to hear PT was a joke, that’s unfortunate.
And, very sorry to hear about your losses.
But, glad to hear you discovered the benefits of KB’s.
The RKBS is exceptional for optimizing back health.
These exercises, when done properly, will go a long way in keeping your back (and body) fit and strong.
Thanks for sharing!
Scott
Russ Moon
Posted at 22:46h, 25 MayAmerican Swing vs. Russian Swing –
Agree with Russian Swing for heavier weights, power production, safer etc.
American Swing – As a Crossfit Kettlebell Instructor Level I I will add that the American Swing was the final swing in the progression only after the student has mastered the Russian Swing.
There are 4 different finish positions for the American Swing which anyone can reference in Jeff Martone’s “Kettlebell RX” book, which is fantastic.
Not all the finish positions place the kettlebell directly overhead.
The extended ROM is beneficial with an emphasis on “IF…textbook form is maintained.”, which does not include cervical hyperextension or flexion of the back.
Our emphasis during instruction was to actually accentuate the hip action even further because you are propelling the bell a further distance, the arms remain the guiding mechanism until you begin braking as you near the very top.
The greater distance traveled dictates a lighter weight than the Russian Swing be used.
This is not a swing for beginners, you must have a good grip, be aware of your connection to the bell and the arc.
I agree with Jeff, it has its place. Safely and correctly performed you really have to pop the hips to drive the bell that high, which I find beneficial even with a comparatively lighter weight. Again not my “goto” swing variation, but properly performed I am rock solid in agreement with Jeff…”it has it’s place”.
Personally I use it, but it is not my “daily bread” the Russian Swing is either in single or double bell forms.
Respectfully submitted,
Russ Moon
Scott
Posted at 09:34h, 26 MayRuss,
Thanks for the comments and observations.
Good points you make and I think the key thing we agree on here is that the AKBS is not for beginners, but rather more advanced, as I mentioned in the article.
I have really looked at the comparisons closely and tried to find a solid reason why I would include it in my own training and wasn’t able to come up with a reason, for the reasons I mentioned.
I do think it “has a place” for others that can rationalize it and find the benefits, but for me, there are just better options.
The key, again, is that this requires a rock solid RKBS before progression. It looks like we agree on that.
Thanks for the comment Russ.
Scott
lionel martin rkc
Posted at 07:58h, 26 Mayvery well done…however…crossfitters who have perfect stability and mobility especially in the shoulders….can get into the top position safely…….but I chance to say it is probably the 80/20 rule….
Scott
Posted at 09:27h, 26 MayLionel,
I agree that those who have achieved stability and mobility can perform the AKBS safer, but it is still a compromising position, no matter how “perfect” technique becomes. The points I made about the shoulder simply can’t be avoided due to the structure of the shoulder joint.
Thanks for the comment.
Danny Sawaya SFG
Posted at 11:38h, 26 MayWhen people only worry about work capacity anything goes. I offer “open gym” at my facility and people from different backgrounds can workout on their own. The American Swing is not allowed in my facility at all.
Greg
Posted at 21:46h, 26 MayWhere does Kenneth Jay’s swing fit in, and for that matter the GS (Girevoy Sport) method? As a former RKC, I saw the squabbling of the different methodologies over the years, but really respected Kenneth’s research and GS’s proven track record. From my perspective, the AKBS is nothing more that a CrossFit marketing gimmick. We, and I believe Pavel, demostrated that overhead position (back in 2006) to transitions for pivoting 90 or 180 degrees doing “moving swings”, but nothing more than that. I feel the “Hardstyle” method has it’s merits, but in the long run it’s emphasis on hard is detrimental to the practitioner’s spine, especially the SI joints. It looks like the AKBS only seems to make that worse. There is no doubt that the Jeff is an amazing instructor, and Pavel and the other senior RKCs are also amazing instructors, but there has not been much progress in the research of long term KB use and/or efficiency in these repective systems (RKC and Crossfit/AKBS). I think the “Us versus Them” mentality only serves to hinder real progress among the KB styles and systems. And just an observation, in the Chinese martial art systems the soft styles are always held in higher regard than the hard.
Scott
Posted at 23:45h, 28 MayHey Greg,
The other methods you mention are different, as well. And they serve different purposes.
For me, the attraction to Hardstyle was the safety and efficiency of movement, knowing what I do about the joints and muscles.
I definitely am not into bashing different methods, so I’ll just say that the RKBS is what makes most sense to me and has provided tremendous benefit.
As far as the stress on the SI joints, I don’t see it, especially since the SI joint is primarily a stable, immobile joint.
As I mentioned, I’ve had serious back issues, but I attribute my back strength and health to the RKBS.
The intent of the article was to give an open, honest, detailed analysis on my own observations as someone who is obsessed with human movement.
It wasn’t intended as an “Us Vs Them.” But, I knew when I posted that some will take offense, but these are my observations.
Anyway, hope it was helpful and appreciate the comments.
Scott
Tim
Posted at 22:12h, 26 MayHow does one know they have ‘mastered’ the swing? I’m Agatsu and HKC certified and have done thousands of swings, but I certainly wouldn’t say I have mastered the swing.
I like the response Russ has given. I just at times feel too many people rush the swing, then try to move on too soon to movements that are more advance even though the foundation to progress to those movements, ie: the swing, hasn’t been met.
I don’t teach the AKBS as it simply looks unsafe to ‘me.’ If it works for a person and they can perform it safely, go ahead.
Scott
Posted at 23:51h, 28 MayTim,
How do you know if you “master” the swing? Great question!
That’s where great coaching comes into play by having someone who is qualified check your technique.
You went through HKC, so I would say you have a decent RKBS pattern. Mastering the swing, in my opinion, is a constant journey and there are always small adjustments we can make to improve the technique.
That’s why I say all the time, that “I am still working on my swing.”
Film yourself, evaluate your technique, and get someone to take a look and offer feedback. And, keep practicing.
That’s how we master our swing.
Thanks for the comments.
Best, Scott
Kostas
Posted at 10:07h, 05 Junegreat article! I was a practitioner of girevoy sport. From 6 months now i feel numbness on my fingers, i have stenosis on c5 disks, osteophytics on c6-c7 & lost of neck lordosis. The doctors said that i must avoid kettlebell training. My physical therapy disagree. I’ d like so much to train again with my kettlebells. What do you think Scott?
Frank N
Posted at 20:31h, 20 JulyGreat article. I had heard about shoulder stress with the American/Crossfit version swing but not the back extension issue. Makes sense.
Scott
Posted at 17:13h, 26 JulyThanks Frank!
warren james
Posted at 12:09h, 06 AprilAs a 71 year old male with all sorts of back problems, the RKBS has worked in relieving me of my lower back stenosis pain and problems associated with my spondylolisthesis. I want to thank you for my purchasing a 25 lb kettle bell just 4 days ago that has made my back feel better already.